Simon Girling, director of Ipswich-based construction firm SEH French has been sworn in as the national chair of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) at the federation’s annual general meeting.
The inauguration ceremony took place at Girton College, Cambridge where the previous NFB chair, Simon Carr, managing director of Henry Boot Construction Limited, handed over the chains of office to mark the beginning of the twelve-month term.
Following the inauguration, Simon Girling hosted the NFB National AGM Gala Dinner in Girton College’s Great Hall. In his welcome speech, he highlighted that even though his region – eastern – voted to leave the EU he was highly encouraged that he was surrounded by people who want to work together for the best results.
“This is the spirit that will help the UK still play its part globally,” said Simon Girling. “This is spirit of the construction industry that will deliver growth and build the homes that people need. This is the spirit that looks at chaos and, while everyone else is losing their heads, allows us to press on with the job.”
Simon has been involved as a member of the NFB for 15 years and took up the role of chair for Suffolk in 2012, becoming eastern chair in 2014. He is a director of SEH French, one of East Anglia’s leading construction companies with clients including the NHS, Suffolk County Council and Orwell Housing Association.
Richard Beresford, chief executive of the National Federation of Builders, commented: “The NFB’s eastern region has a particularly strong network of building companies in membership and is a formidable hub of activity. It’s wonderful that Simon will be able to share the spirit of the region with our membership throughout England and Wales. The EU referendum results have created some uncertainty but investment in construction is vital for reinvigorating the economy. We have an opportunity to show that construction can lead the UK through economic uncertainty, so it’s an exciting time for Simon to take the helm.”
Image: Simon Girling (center) the new chair of the NFB with Simon Carr (left) and Richard Beresford.
